Overall Rating

User Review

WHAT I LIKED: 'Bird Box,' is a high-concept dystopian horror about learning the importance of connection and family, and in fact it's largely that concept itself that carries the film. Yes the idea of having a mysterious invisible force that drives people to death when they see it provides quite a few opportunities not only for some tense or confrontational moments (particularly during the part of the film set in a house full of strangers), but also the opportunity for that main thematic through-line where when there's nothing left, what really matters is family. That's all brought to life rather well by director Susanne Bier, and when you couple that with some great set-pieces what you've got is an engaging and enjoyable horror movie overall that largely works to keep your eyes on the screen and your bum on the edge of your seat.
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE: We've already had a high-concept dystopian horror about the importance of connection and family this year in the form of 'A Quiet Place,'... and that's a far superior film. This one relies far more on dialogue, explanation and predictable twists without fully unlocking an emotional connection with its central character's crucial arc.
VERDICT: A horror film buoyed by a great central concept, 'Bird Box,' will keep you hooked and on the edge of your seat for its entirety. It's no 'A Quiet Place,' though...